Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders

Get ready to take your chicken tender game to the next level with these irresistible Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders! Imagine crispy, flavorful chicken, perfectly seasoned, and encrusted with crunchy tortilla chips that give every bite a delightful crunch. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a game day gathering, or just for a fun weeknight meal, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Pair them with your favorite salsa, and you’ve got a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to make.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders stand out from the usual breaded chicken? It’s all about that crunchy tortilla chip coating! The crushed tortilla chips add a unique texture and flavor that takes these tenders from ordinary to extraordinary. Plus, the combination of spices, including garlic powder and cumin, infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. It’s a fresh twist on classic chicken tenders that the whole family will love!

What Goes In

To whip up these delicious Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 3 1/2 ounces crushed tortilla chips
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Olive oil spray
• 1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 1/2 cup jarred salsa, for dipping

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these items handy:

• Baking sheet – For baking your chicken tenders to perfection.
• Parchment paper – To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowls – For dredging and coating the chicken.
• Whisk – To beat the egg.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – For crushing tortilla chips if you’re starting with whole chips.

Step-by-Step: Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help create that perfect crispy texture on the outside of the chicken tenders.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Lightly spray it with olive oil spray to ensure the tenders get crispy.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the kosher salt, garlic powder, and cumin. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Set up a dredging station with three bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, pour the lightly beaten egg. In the third bowl, combine the crushed tortilla chips.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg, letting any excess drip off, and finally, coat it with the crushed tortilla chips. Press gently to ensure the chips adhere well.

Step 6: Arrange and Spray

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray. This will help them brown and crisp up nicely in the oven.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are golden brown on the outside.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once they are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve the Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders with lime wedges, chopped fresh cilantro, and your favorite salsa for dipping.

Smart Substitutions

If you want to customize this recipe or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

• Gluten-free flour – Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed.
• Egg replacement – For a vegan option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.
• Spicy twist – Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the tortilla chip coating for an extra kick.
• Different chips – Feel free to experiment with different flavors of tortilla chips, like lime or spicy varieties.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• For extra crunch, consider double-coating the chicken by repeating the dredging process.
• These tenders can also be air-fried for a healthier version—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• If you have leftover tenders, they can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to maintain their crispiness.

Save It for Later

If you want to enjoy these Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders later, they store well! Here’s how:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze uncooked, breaded tenders for up to 2 months—just cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Quick Q&A

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenderloins for even cooking.

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

Aside from salsa, consider ranch dressing, guacamole, or even a spicy mayo for an added flavor boost!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken tenders and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking when you’re ready to cook them.

Explore More

Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? Check these out:

• Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
• Cheesy Chicken Poblano Penne Bake

Time to Try It

This recipe for Tortilla Encrusted Chicken Tenders is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the dinner table. The combination of crunchy tortilla chips, flavorful spices, and juicy chicken is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re making these for a crowd or just for yourself, they are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You won’t regret it when you take that first crispy bite. Happy cooking!